Energy Security in Sub-Saharan Africa: Examination of Power Trading in the Central Africa Region

This study assesses the energy security in the Sub-Saharan Africa sub region. For any country, energy production is a critical component for economic growth and development. Energy security as such, is a geopolitical strategy measure that must be nurtured and preserved. Anecdotal evidence from countries in central Africa Region illustrates that there are diversities of energy potential among states. This potential is an energy security asset, at the disposal of these counties, fit for developing their energy production. The study also expounds significant roles played by the energy security in each country. Different power trading systems are discussed in this article in light of individual country experiences. The study further examines the parallels and dichotomies of the regulatory frameworks of various power trading agreements of selected counties. Such, facilitates better comprehension of the politics behind power trading agreements in different global regions. The methodological approach adopted included a qualitative approach for both data collection and analysis. Data was primarily collected through literature survey and document analysis. Findings reveal need for the CAPP member states to revamp their energy production in order to accelerate power trading in the central Africa region. Further to this, is was found out that the construction of high voltage transmission network across borders within the CAPP will amplify trading of power amongst member states. This will provide cohesion and stability of energy security of countries in the central Africa region.